A £1m fund has been launched to address the digital skills shortage outside London.
Companies can apply to iAMDigital for investment of between £50,000 and £200,000.
They must be considered “scalable” small- or medium-sized enterprises and demonstrate how they will improve young people’s digital skills through an academy, education programme or apprenticeship scheme.
Alternatively, the firms can have a specific product for marginalised young people to improve their wellbeing, employability and access to opportunities.
“It’s vital everyone in the UK has the digital skills to succeed in a modern economy, create a society that works for all and help keep us competitive in a fast-changing world,” said Karen Bradley, secretary of state for culture, media and sport.
“This fund will help young people outside the capital get the skills they need to thrive.
“And, following our commitment to provide basic digital skills training to adults in England who need it, is another boost as we aim to equip the whole country with the tools for modern life.”
Successful companies must also track the social impact of the investment.
“iAMDigital is looking to invest in creative and talented early stage or established social businesses, with a strong dedication to social impact,” said Mehjabeen Patrick, CFO of Creative England, which is managing the fund with the Nominet Trust.
“We’re particularly interested in companies with growth potential, ambitious and experienced management teams, and a scalable digital proposition.”
There is a deadline of 27th October for expression of interest and 1st December for full applications.